Initial Ventilator Setup & Weaning Readiness
Protective ventilation principles (ARDSnet-based) + standard weaning criteria · Last reviewed: Jul 2026
Initial Setup
| Parameter | Initial value |
|---|---|
| Tidal volume | 6 mL/kg predicted body weight (4–8 mL/kg if ARDS) |
| Respiratory rate | 14–20/min, adjust to target pCO₂/pH |
| FiO₂ | Start 100%, wean down rapidly based on SpO₂/ABG |
| PEEP | Minimum 5 cmH₂O, titrate to oxygenation & compliance |
| Plateau pressure | Keep <30 cmH₂O |
1
Weaning Readiness
Criteria met? (underlying cause improved, adequate oxygenation, haemodynamically stable, capable of spontaneous breathing)
Yes → perform Spontaneous Breathing Trial (SBT) 30–120 min.
2
Decision
SBT successful (adequate RR/tidal volume, no distress, haemodynamically stable)?
Yes → consider extubation (also assess airway protection & effective cough). No → return to supportive ventilation, identify cause of failure, retry the next day.
Detailed weaning protocols (rapid shallow breathing index, etc.) can be added as separate calculators in the Medical Calculator menu.